By Our Reporter
Kampala Metropolitan Police have arrested 196 suspects in a series of crime-prevention operations targeting drug abuse, suspected criminal hideouts and other unlawful activities in different parts of the metropolitan area.
The operations, conducted between October 21 and 22, 2026, covered Kabalagala, Katwe, Kira Road, Nansana and Nakawa, with police recovering suspected narcotic substances and other exhibits. ASP Luke Owoyesigyire, the Deputy Public Relations Officer for Kampala Metropolitan Police, said the operations were intended to disrupt criminal activities, apprehend suspects and improve public safety.
In Kabalagala, 28 suspects were arrested on October 21 in Maaso Ana Zone, Kansanga Parish, Makindye Division, for allegedly abusing or possessing suspected narcotic substances. Police said the operation targeted crime hotspots associated with mugging, thuggery and drug abuse.
In Katwe, 130 suspects, comprising 76 males and 54 females, were arrested during an operation conducted between midnight and 4:20 a.m. on October 22 in Busabala, Kosovo Zone, Kategula Zone and Ndeeba. Three additional suspects, identified as Muhammad Ali, Mukiibi Jovan and Semwanga Simon, were arrested in a related operation in Ndeeba after they were allegedly found carrying two pangas concealed around their waists.
Other items recovered during the operations included suspected narcotic substances, a claw hammer and a pair of pliers. Police said screening and investigations were ongoing. In the Kira Road policing area, 14 suspects were arrested on October 21 in Kyebando and Baahi/Kikaaya, areas identified as hotspots for drug abuse and other criminal activities.
Meanwhile, in Nansana, police arrested Babirye Shakirah at about 6 p.m. on October 21 in Nabweru North Ward over allegations of selling marijuana and harbouring individuals linked to criminal activities. Police allege that she resisted arrest and assaulted an officer using a knife. She was charged with assaulting a police officer on duty and possession of suspected narcotic substances, identified as marijuana.
In Nakawa, 12 suspects were arrested during an operation conducted between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. on October 21 in Bengazi Village and Nakawa Market. The operation was carried out in collaboration with local defence and community vigilante teams.
The suspects were taken to Jinja Road Police Station and charged with frequenting places where opium is smoked and public nuisance. ASP Owoyesigyire said police would continue conducting targeted operations in identified crime hotspots, supported by intelligence gathering and community cooperation.
He urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspected criminal activities to the nearest police station or through established police communication channels. Police said investigations into the cases were continuing and that all suspects would be handled in accordance with the law.